One Iron Horse Farm is now offering on-site Bombproofing Classes and Clinics!!

Our bombproofing classes consist of habituation to specific stimuli, which leads to a gradual desensitization to strange objects and loud noises or other stimuli. It is important to make this distinction because even though we term this process "bombproofing," no one horse is ever 100% bombproof! However, we can make remarked progress on habituating to specific stimul (balls, banners, flags, water, etc.) so that the horse becomes more comfortable or non-reactive to all kinds of stimuli IF the owner continues the introduction to new things at home or while back in the owner's care.

Classes are available for 2 to 4 weeks, and the fee includes pasture or pen board. Classes for colts and fillies will be permitted on a weekly basis; however, all youngsters have to possess basic ground manners before this class! This includes leading, tying, picking up feet, backing up, and loading in a trailer. We will ask that you demonstrate these skills in your young colt before we accept them. Vaccination records and current negative coggins is required. Teeth should have been floated within the last 6-12 months (6 months for hand float, 12 for power) and farrier work should be up to date. Obviously we will not accept any horses with soundness issues (call for clarification; for example, a retired jumper who is retraining as a trail horse would be accepted, or a navicular horse with special shoes. Headbobbing lame would not be accepted).

Older horses must be broke and easily ridden by an intermediate rider. We understand that some might spook easily, but other vices such as bucking, rearing, or striking out at other horses are not acceptable. Ground manners, as well, must be excellent.

We will take rideable horses through the "obstacle course" on hand, and then ride them through. Our goal is not necessarily to make them not frightened of everything, but to help them react in a non-violent manner. All "graduates" will take a video home with them marking their progress.

See this video of a horse who have been successfully "bombproofed." Objects seen in this video offer a small representation of the obstacles -- others include large balls, wooden bridges, smoke bombs, and pop guns.

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO!!

This is a great class for trail horses, prospective lesson horses, or a child's current or future mount!

Email karen@oneironhorsefarm.com for pricing and additional information.